“Breakthrough” as Priory Hall residents are offered a deal

THE MINISTER FOR the Environment tonight welcomed what he called a “fair and reasonable” framework for the residents of Priory Hall, nearly two years after they were evacuated from their homes.

Phil Hogan said that the proposed deal would give the residents “an opportunity to get on with their lives”.

A process for solving the crisis at the Donaghmede housing complex began three weeks ago, with a proposal being offered on the last day of negotiations.

RTÉ reports that it is believed banks will give the residents new mortgages to buy new homes, and to write off their existing debts. It adds that through Dublin City Council, the Government will take charge of Priory Hall, and will refurbish it to bring it up to standard.

Hogan said that the deal reflected the unique circumstances of the Priory Hall residents.

“The proposed Framework recognises the exceptional and unique difficulties faced by the home owners in Priory Hall over the last two years and I believe that it offers a fair and reasonable solution to their housing needs.”

Residents

The details of the proposal have not been disclosed, to allow residents a chance to consider them.

A spokesperson for the residents said that they would not be commenting until all residents had had a chance to review the proposals.

Hogan said that the framework will see Dublin City Council refurbish Priory Hall, but how or when is not known.

“The Government also intends to establish an oversight process, with participation from the residents, to ensure that the Framework is implemented effectively and to deal with specific issues that arise on a case-by-case basis.”

He also said that the case “was one of the worst examples of the failures of the Celtic Tiger years” and vowed that new regulatory measures would ensure it could not happen again.

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